3D Mammography Examination (Digital Tomography)

Greater Accuracy, Peace of Mind

3D Mammography technology, also known as digital tomography, is clinically proven to detect cancer in earlier, more treatable stages – reducing false positive rates. The screening is more accurate than a conventional mammogram. The imaging technology captures multiple images of the breast from different angles, so your provider is able to review one layer at a time – like turning the pages of a book. The precision achieved by 3D mammography exams is ideal for women who have dense breasts or have inherited a certain type of gene predictive of breast cancer.

What is a 3D mammography exam?

Early detection is the best defense against breast cancer. 3D mammography examination is revolutionizing how breast cancer is detected by providing more accurate mammograms for all breast types. The imaging system uses high-powered computing to convert digital breast images into a stack of very thin layers for your radiologist to view. A 3D mammography exam may be used as a screening tool in conjunction with a traditional digital mammogram or may be used by itself for a diagnostic mammogram.

During a 3D mammogram examination, the X-ray arm sweeps in a slight arc over the breast, taking multiple breast images in just seconds. Your provider is then able to view your breast tissue in one millimeter layers. Instead of viewing your breast tissue in one flat image, the physician can examine the tissue one page or “slice” at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What can I expect during the exam?Just as with a traditional digital mammogram, the technologist will position you, compress your breast under a paddle and take images from different angles. There is no additional compression required with a 3D mammogram examination, and it only takes a few seconds longer for each view.

The technologist will view the images of your breasts at the computer workstation to ensure quality images have been captured for review. A radiologist will then examine the images and report results either to your physician or directly to you.

Am I a candidate for a 3D mammography exam?A 3D mammography exam is approved for all women who are eligible for a standard mammogram. Multiple clinical studies show that all women, regardless of breast type or density, can benefit from a 3D mammography exam.

Check with your insurance provider about coverage for a 3D mammography exam.

Is there more radiation exposure during a 3D mammography exam?Very low X-ray energy is used during the screening examination, so your radiation exposure is actually below FDA guidelines. In addition, 3D mammography technology has been clinically proven to reduce false positive call-backs by up to 40 percent.

What is the difference between a screening and a diagnostic mammogram?A screening mammogram is your annual mammogram that is done each year. Sometimes, the radiologist may ask you to return for follow-up images – called a diagnostic mammogram – to rule out an unclear area in the breast, or if there is a breast complaint that needs evaluation.

Why should I choose 3D mammography examination?A 3D mammography exam detects 41 percent more invasive cancers and reduces false positives by up to 40 percent. The exam is simply more accurate, and allows physicians to see masses and distortions associated with cancers significantly more clearly than with conventional 2D mammography. Instead of viewing all the complexities of your breast tissue in one flat image, fine details are more visible and no longer hidden by tissue.

To schedule a 3D mammography exam near you, call a Bassett location below:

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